What Is PCOS?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome or PCOS is a hormonal disorder that occurs during the reproductive phase. The exact reason for this disease is yet to be found but experts believe that it is caused by excess production of male hormones that lead to a series of adverse effects on the patient’s body.
Symptoms of PCOS
The symptoms of PCOS may vary from patient to patient. Therefore, some patients may experience one or two symptoms while some may face the trouble all the way. Here are the major symptoms associated with PCOS:
- Ovaries with one or multiple cysts
- Irregular periods
- Menorrhea or heavy bleeding
- Very light bleeding
- Oily skin and acne
- Abnormal growth of facial hair
- Infertility
- Excess weight gain especially around the waist and abdomen
- Thinning of hair as well as male-pattern baldness
- Abnormal hair growth on arms, chest, back, and abdomen
- Skin tags on armpits or neck
Thick and dark skin patches under the breasts, in the armpits, and at the back of the neck
Unlike PCOD, PCOS is a serious problem as it can interfere with the fertility and hormonal balance of the female’s body. Therefore, it is a must to seek proper treatment and get the situation under control.
How PCOS Leads To Infertility?
Though infertility has a common association with PCOS, it is not a definite outcome. It affects different women at different paces and styles. The biggest impact of this problem is on the production of eggs by the ovaries. It changes the way eggs are produced which either leads to immature egg production. Sometimes, the eggs ovulate and the woman is able to conceive but she is not able to sustain the pregnancy for long. But usually, eggs in women suffering from PCOS do not ovulate naturally. The irregularities in the menstrual cycle leave the uterus incapable of preparing the endometrium for pregnancy and thus interfere with conception.
How does Ayurveda Manage PCOS?
The Ayurvedic treatment for PCOS includes medication and lifestyle modifications. The treatment focuses on four categories:
- Restoring normal chances of conception
- Reducing signs of infertility
- Bringing down the level of insulin resistance
- Restoring and preventing endometrial cancer and endometrial hyperplasia
The Ayurvedic process of PCOS treatment includes the following:
- Detoxification through Panchakarma activities
- Revitalizing and strengthening the reproductive system of the patient
- Reversing the hormonal imbalance
- Addressing insulin resistance and obesity
Panchakarma is the first line of treatment that helps remove the toxins in the body. However, the therapy used for the process varies from patient to patient. Doctors examine the patient’s condition and extent of disease through a comprehensive evaluation process and then develop a tailored plan for the patient. In most cases, relief comes from the application of Panchakarma therapies which eliminates the toxins not just from reproductive but other related systems as well. Here is a synopsis of various Panchakarma therapies used in the treatment of PCOS:
- Vasti: It is a herbal enema that is administered through the rectum. It takes care of vitiated vata dosha in the body and resolves several health problems including PCOS. The primary target of Vasti is to remove the Vata dosha and bring down its level. With respect to PCOS, it is very beneficial in treating hormonal imbalance, blockage in the fallopian tube, PCOD, dysmenorrhea, and irregular periods.
- Virechan: Virechan helps in extracting contaminants caused by ‘Pitta’ vitiation. It is a drug-induced emetic process that is carried out mainly in the spring season.
- Fertility Massage: It includes a strong and soft massage of the lower abdomen in a specific direction that helps restore the normal functioning of the uterus. Fertility massage also helps reduce abdominal pressure and enhances blood supply to the pelvis. It is considered a highly effective therapy for PCOS treatment that rectifies the problems related to the reproductive system.
